PS 3531 


.144 


G6 


1922 




Copy 


1 



,^l^' 



f GOLD AND SILVER 

By 



•% 



B. ALICE PIERSON 




.?. 



Copyrighted 1922 

By 

B. ALICE PIERSON 



Commercial Printing Co., Lexington, Ky. 



I.A(;77401 

JUL -8 72 



GOLD AND SILVER 

By 
B. ALICE PIERSON 



'*1 counsel thee to buy of me gold 
tried in the fire, that thou mayest 
be rich." 






i^a.^^ 



DEDICATION 

To all the "great and humble souls" 

Who shared with me their fond affection; 

And to the "dead and living," 

Who had a part in the moulding 

And uplifting of my character. 



INTRODUCTORY. 

That I was not born with a "gold" 
or even "silver spoon" in my mouth, 
I deem fortunate; for out of my 
struggles, trials and disappointments, 
came the issues of this book. 

B. Alice Pierson. 



PROPHECY. 

In my early childhood, I remember writing with my 
forefinger, the word LOVE, on window panes, desks, etc. 
Not until my fortieth year was reached, did this revelation 
come to me: The frosted window panes, represent cold 
hearts, to be melted by the warm finger of love; the dusty 
desks, souls steeped in degradation and sin, to be saved 
by the power of love. May this prove prophetic to the 
extent that my influence in that direction, may be felt 
through my pen; and that I may attain to that "perfect 
love," which casteth out fear, and which flows in sympathy 
to all mankind. 



MY FIRST POEM. 

When a child at school, we were asked by the teacher, 
to write about objects in the room. To me, was assigned, 
a certain picture of which I wrote the following: 

"Mr. and Mrs. Moore, 
Are standing by the door, 
Gazing at their baby girl, 
Lying beside their pet dog* Pearl, 
Sound asleep, upon the floor." 

Upon examining the papers, the teacher raised his 
brow in surprise, saying: 

"Alice, you'll surely be a poet!" 

Out of the entire room, mine was the only poetry. 



A PLEA FOR ORPHANS. 

O Thou Great God, Creator of all things, Thou who 
hast dominion over all wherein is the breath of life, accept 
this plea on behalf of all orphan children. Without Thee, 
thej^ would have no existence, for Thou didst bring them 
into being. Yea, in the removal of their parents, Thou 
too, hadst a part. O Thou Loving Father, wilt Thou 
not justly claim them as Thy children, clasping th m 
tenderly to Thy bosom. O Thou Merciful God, wJlt Thou 
not succor them in their bereavement. O Thou Bountiful 
Giver, wilt Thou not provide food and raiment for their 
bodies. O Thou Tender Shepherd, wilt Thou not protect 
those tender lambs, sheltering them from cold and harm. 
O Thou Gracious Redeemer, wilt Thou not forgive their 
inbred sin, redeeming their souls from bondage and de- 
struction. Hear this, O God, for the sake of Thine own 
dear Son. Amen. 



GOD'S POOR. 

One morning, I prayed to God to send me five dollars 
for my poorest friend, an aged invalid. Then started out 
to visit a widow, in the opposite direction. Though 
dressed for the country, with a parcel in hand, I sud- 
denly changed my mind and went to see my richest friend, 
who lived in another direction. 

After dinner, while driving toward the city, my wealthy 
friend handed me a five dollar bill, which I took the next 
morning to my dear old friend. When I gave it to her, 
she wept for joy, saymg, God sent that through you, my 
dear child, as I am now dependent upon Him, for even 
necessities. 



"A word fitly spoken is like apples of 
gold in pictures of silver." 

A golden vein from the ore of Solomon's precious 
mine. More people talk "too much" than "too little." 
We are annoyed by the "chatter-box," while the still 
small voice, rests us. But nothing so delights, as the 
right word, spoken at the right time. It is sure to 
count. 



"Silver and gold have I none; 
but such as I have give I thee." 



An example of the stalwart faith of the Apostle Peter 
For the lame man to "rise up and walk," was far 

better than "Silver and Gold." 

"Cold cash" may pay the doctor's fee, and procure the 

medicine, but faith in God's power to heal, is of far 

greater worth. 



HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD 

Zech. 14:20. 

A page from the Book of Life. As a child, I attended 
a church, where the text, "Holiness nnto the Lord," ap- 
peared over the pulpit. The memory of that "golden 
motto," is deeply enshrined within my soul. Such words 
are of infinite value. Would that churches might pay 
more heed to the deep and holj'' things of God. Then, 
folks being impressed, might strive to worship in the 
beauty of holiness. 



A FRIEND LOVETH AT ALL TIMES. 

Prov. 17:17. 

A silken thread from Solomon's skein of wisdom. 
There are friends and friends. Friends merciful 
and friends mercenary. Friends of prosperity, and 
friends of adversity. Those of honor, wealth, 
fame, etc., but the one who counts most, the "true friend" 
who is ever willing and ready, through sympathy, to lend 
eyes, ears, hands, heart and purse. Who remembers "his 
friends," at a throne of grace. 



FRIENDSHIP. 

There are friends of gold, and silver too, 
And some as true as steel; 
Here's one who is a friend to you, 
May love our friendship seal. 



PURIFICATI ON. 

I neither murmur nor complain, 
But lightly bear my cross of pain; 
For by and by, when I've been tried, 
I'll go to join the purified. 



AS GOLD 

"But He knoweth the way that I take; 
When he hath tried me, I shall come 
forth as gold." 

I know not why I here must stay, 
And spend my precious youth; 
Why not to foreign fields away, 
To scatter seeds of truth. 

I know not why from friends I'm torn, 
To dwell from men apart; 
When 'to be mingled witli the throng, 
Would gladden my poor heart. 

I know not why so much I've lost. 
Of aught that can befall; 
And yet I dare not count the cost, 
While Christ is all in all. 



WHAT THOUGH? 

"For I know that my Redeemer liveth, 
and that He shall stand at the latter 
day upon the earth." 

What though He bids me stand and wait, 

I thereby serve Him too; 

I'll reach as soon the golden gate, 

As bright, will be my view. 

What though my friends be weeded out, 
And I be left alone, 
In fertile soil things better sprout; 
He claims me for His own. 

What though my losses heavy be, 

In things both great and small, 

'Twas He who gave, why should not He, 

Have right to their recall. 



COURAGE. 

.1 ,,„ do all things, through 
Christ which strer^gtheneth me. 

Gran, me a faith in The. oh Lord, 
^/aifhrh^xr^iwora. 

Life's stormy sea to sail. 

Give me a hope in Thee, oh Lord, 

rp:rtra=:tre;mma..rd, 

Never of fear to thmk. 

Send me a courage bold, oh Lord, 

Like the AP°^*';' ^^^;;, be restored. 
Faith, hope and coura e 
By Him, who's Lord of all. 



LIGHT 

"Light is sown for the righteous and 
gladness for the upright in heart." 

We need to bask in the sunHght, 
Of God's eternal love; 
To light the way for others, 
Who long for realms above. 

We need to shine in the darkness, 
Of earth's chaotic sin; 
Reflect a gleam for travelers, 
Whose souls to Christ we'd win. 

We need to beam with the gladness, 
Of heaven's supernal joy; 
To prove His powers of blessing, 
That others might enjoy. 



BRAVER, TRUER, STRONGER. 

Would you make a man a coward, 
By being one yourself? 
No, make another braver, 
By being brave yourself. 

Would you cause another's failure, 
By being false yourself? 
No, make another truer, 
By being true yourself. 

Would you make another weaker, 
By being weak yourself? 
No, make another stronger, 
By being strong yourself. 



BETTER, NOBLER, PURER. 

Do you wish the world were better? 
Try being good, yourself; 
And you will find the world 
Is better than you dreamed. 

Do you wish that men were nobler? 
Be noble then, yourself; 
And you will find that men 
Are nobler than you thought. 

Do you wish mankind were purer? 
Try being true, yourself; 
And you will find mankind 
Far truer than you knew. 



AWAKE AND SOAR! 

Awake, my soul, awaken! 
Respond with sacred song; 
Loud praises send to Heaven, 
Your sweetest notes prolong; 
Thine ear detect the music, 
And thou shalt holier be. 

Look up, my soul, look upward I 
Inhale a purer air; 
Forget the Hesh and earthly, 
Be free from mortal care; 
Thine eye behold the vision. 
And thou shalt purer live. 

Soar up, my soul, soar higher! 
Into the realms of bliss; 
Until you meet an angel, 
And greet her with a kiss; 
Your heart respond to rapture, 
And thou shalt higher soar! 



REST FOR SOULS, 

Souls that are sad, 

Souls that are mad, 

Burdened and sore distressed; 

Turn to your God, 

Bow 'neath the rod, 

"Come, I will give you rest." 

Weary and worn, 

Bleeding and torn, 

Tortured by fear and dismay; 

Kneel down and pray, 

Hear Him now say: 

"Lo, I am with you alway." 

Grieve mot the lost. 

Count not the cost. 

Seek what shall never fade; 

Look up and live! 

He'll comfort give. 

Oh, trust and ''be not afraid.' 



A SOLEMN APPEAL. 

O Lord Jesus ! 

Hold me in the hollow of Thy hand; 

Lose not Thy grasp. 

O Precious Saviour ! 

Keep me near the core of Thy heart; 

Leave me not comfortless. 

O Kind Shepherd ! 

Watch over Thy tender lamb; 

Keep her within Thy fold. 

O Adored King ! 

Reign over me in every part; 

May Thy power enthrall nie. 

O Awful Majesty ! 

Gaze upon me with that eye that never sleeps; 

Let me not slothful be. 



O Supreme Guide ! 

Lead me through the paths I know not; 

Let my feet not stray. 

O Great Physician! 
Heal my sore affHctions; 
May I not be maimed. 

O Stern Pilot! 

Steer my bark o'er troubled waves; 

Let me not sink in despair. 

O Divine Creator ! 

Love me with an everlasting love; 

And let me dwell at last in Heaven with Thee. 



SPIRITUAL WEALTH. 

"Hearken, m}'- beloved brethren: 

Hath not God chosen the poor of this world 

rich in faith, ,and heirs of the kingdom 

which He has promised to them that love Him?' 

The rich may not acquire 

The wealth of simple faith. 

The substance of things hoped for. 

The rich may not discern. 
The wealth of blessed hope, 
Which maketh not ashamed. 

The rich may not possess 
The wealth of sacred love, 
The fulfilling of the law. 

The rich may not accrue 
The wealth of holy joy, 
Which the world cannot give. 



The rich may not receive 
The wealth of perfect peace, 
Which passeth understanding. 

The rich may not obtain 

The wealth of sovereign grace, 

Given to the lowl}^ 

The rich may not attain 

The wealth of noble strength, 

Made perfect in weakness. 

The rich may not desire 
The wealth of Jesus Christ; 
The Saviour of the world. 

"Charge them that are rich in this world, 
that the3' be not highminded, nor trust in 
uncertain riches, but in the living God, 
who giveth us richly all things to enjoy." 



JOY. 

My heart a message of joy would bring, 
My soul with rapturous jo}^ would sing; 
Joy, exceeding great joy. 

My tongue its praises of joy would speak 
My will for others such joy would seek; 
Jo3% exceeding great joy. 

My hands a rythm of jo}^ wouM play, 
In joy obediently live each day; 
Joy, exceeding great joy. 

My feet swift steppings of joy would take, 
On willing errands for Jesus' sake; 
Joy, exceeding great joy. 

My life rich blessings of joy would give, 
That all might have of this joy and live; 
Joy, exceeding great joy. 



BEYOND THE HILL. 

Eagerly climbing the hill of wealth, 
Seeking for gain, perhaps by stealth; 
Losing oftimes, our precious health. 

Anxiously climbing the hill of fame, 
Seeking perchance a lasting name; 
Winning it may be, one of shame. 

Though traveling onward many a mile. 
For wealth and fame, or even style, 
All come to naught, we learn erstwhile. 

Patiently plods the weary soul, 
Anxious to reach the top, his goal. 
Ere doth break the golden bowl. 

For just a little beyond the hill, 
Is that which can all hopes fulfill, 
If we obe}' the Master's will. 

And though to some it may sound odd, 
The longer we the pathway trod. 
The shorter seems the wav to God. 



IF LOVED. 

It's nice to have some one to love you, 
Though it be but a tiny boy; 
It tendeth toward making joy. 

It's nice to hove some one to love you, 
It m3.y be a maiden fair; 
Which indeed, is a pleasure rare. 

It's nice to have some one to love you, 
It may be a lover true; 
Distilling heavenly dew. 

It's nice to have some one to love you, 
If indeed a husband dear; 
Having power the heart to cheer. 

It's nice to have some one to love you, 
Yes, even a parent fond; 
An indissoluble bond. 

It's nice to have some one to love you, 
It may be a loving friend; 
The faithful love to the end. 



HOPE, FAITH, LOVE. 

Hope is bright silver, 
Fa<th, pure gold; 
Love, a jewel rare. 

Hope is rich Autumn, 
Faith, warm Spring; 
Love, like Summer fair. 

Hope is pure thought, 
Faith, kind words; 
Love, a noble deed. 

Hope is the branch. 

Faith, the vine; 

Love, the fruit, indeed. 

Hope is a child, 
Faith, the youth; 
Love, a full grown man. 

Hope says, "I may," 
Faith, "I can"; 
Love, "I gladly will." 



WAITING 

To live that I might die, 
To know the how and why; 
To feel another's sigh, 
To greet Him by and by. 

To hear the gospel call, 
To work for good to all; 
To heed whate'er the cost. 
To meet my loved and lost. 

To love both friend and foe, 
To share another's woe; 
To watch the shadows grow, 
To reap from seeds 1 sow. 

To learn that I might teach, 
To help within my reach; 
To speak kind words of cheer, 
To drv the mourner's tear. 



To tell of Joys untold, 
To see the books unfold; 
To play on harps of gold, 
To sing the songs of old. 

To prove His precious love, 
To taste the sweets above; 
To pray for all mankind. 
To seek and thus to find. 

To feed the tender lambs, 
To give the needy alms; 
To trust in death's dark hour, 
To reach the blissful shore. 

To sow that I might reap, 
To wake His watch to keep; 
To earn that I might give, 
To die that I might live. 



DAY UNTO DAY. 

•"Day unto day uttereth speech, and night 
unto night sheweth knowledge." 

Each day passes over, 
Each night cometh on; 
Life's tide ebbing lower, 
Life's journey soon done. 
We wake in the morning, 
We sleep in the night; 
Scarce heeding the warning, 
To "do v/ith thy might." 

For life has its trouble, 
Through which we must go; 
Some seem to have double. 
Their share of its woe; 
Then let us be do.ng, 
The best that we know; 
Let others be mowing. 
From seeds that we sow. 



BEAUTY AND GOODNESS. 

Beauty is great, goodness is greater; but 
beauty and goodness, is the greatest combination. 

Beauty is admired, 

Goodness praised; 

Beauty and goodness, adored, 

Beauty is noticed, 

Goodness recognized; 

Beauty and goodness, appreciated. 

Beauty attracts, 

Goodness, persuades; 

Beauty and goodness, compels. 

Beauty, charms, 

Goodness, inspi'res, 

Beauty and goodness blesses. 

Beauty lends interest, 

Goodness, strength; 

Beauty and goodness, power. 



LOVE'S SWEET REFRAIN. 

It may feed a heart th'at is famished, 
Like a flower refreshed by the dew. 

It may cheer the lonely spirit, 
Like the touch of vibrant chords. 

It may flood one's soul with rapture, 
Like the swelling of the tide. 

It may fall from the lips of a singer. 
Like the sunbeam upon 'a rose. 

It may flash from the mind of a genius, 
Like a meteor in the skies. 

It may waft on the winds of Summer, 
Like strains from a sweet-toned harp. 

It may chord in the realm of Nature, 
Like the fountain's rippling flow. 

It may 'tune to the dawnings splendor. 
Like the sun at its glorious rise. 

It may pitch to the noon-tide golden. 
Like the fire's radiant glow. 

It may float in the mistj'- twilight, 
Like a barque on the silvery wave. 

It may blend with the gentle evening, 
Like the sunset fading low. 

It may soar at the holy mid-night, 
Like the swish of an angel's wing. 



DIVINE LOVE. 

It can feed the soul that's hungr}', 
This heavenly manna sweet. 

It can quench the th.rsty traveler, 
'Tis a most refreshing spring. 

It can cure the mind of madness, 
A wondrous, healing balm. 

It can cheer a soul in sadness, 
By the whisper of a prajer. 

It can free the soul from bondage, 
Even burst the prison bar. 

It can raise the fallen woman, 
Just like Magdalene of yore. 

It can check the raging fever. 
Has power to raise the dead. 

It can still the mighty tempest; 
DM He not calm the waves? 

It can soothe a soul in sickness, 
As a mother lulls her babe. 

It can rest the soul that's weary, 
Like the vision in a dream. 

It can 'wake the soul to gladness, 
Such as hoi}'' angels sang. 

It can make of earth, an Eden, 
Oh, great transforming Love. 



A GLIMPSE OF MY SAVIOUR. 

Oh, for a glimpse of -V f^f ^• 

Oh. coufd I eudure the brightness, 
Of a face so rad.ant as H^s^ 
To know when I gaze on His 
He „.y Lord and Master ,s. 

°'^- '- VtVo'^Crs^right. 

A beam from tho^e ^y 
A balm for any sadness 
'Twould be a wonderful sight. 

To me the greatest f^vo'^' 
That might be granted youth. 

Oh, that I might see Jesus'. 
Tn feel His presence near, 
^"ut'then I know He sees us, 
And watches us with care. 



LIFTED UP. 

The Son of God was lifted up, 
When a mother worn with care, 
Knelt down and taught her baby boy, 
To lisp a tiny prayer. 

The Son of God was lifted up, 
When amid a busy throng, 
A beggar, blind and blue with cold. 
Brought from his soul a song. 

The Son of God was lifted up, 

B}^ Magdalene of yore, 

When stooping low to touch His hem, 

Was told, "Go, sin no more." 

The Son of God was lifted up. 
Out on the battle field. 
When a soldier gave his very life, 
His loved at home to shield. 

The Son of God was lifted up 
By Him, whose name is Peace; 
Who put the enemy to rout. 
And bade all wars to cease. 



HOW TRUE. 

The goblet, may be "golden lined." 
1 ! U the water be stagnant, 
tl nau* atmg; while the cooUng 
drlught. though drank from a 
". usty tin," may be refresh.ng. 



A TRIPLE LOVE. 

There's a love for the body, 

A love for the mind, 

A love for the soul that be; 

But thrice blest the man, if he ever find, 

One in whom he can love all three. 



A TRUE MAN'S PRAYER. 

O God, Thou who didst create the first woman, and 
gave her to Adam for a helpmate, I implore Thee: Send 
to me, or cause to cross my pathway, a woman; noble, 
sincere; one w*hose love I shall be worthy of. 

Ma}^ the divine instinct of love be so strong, that 
we shall know each other at a glance. Sanction, I pray 
Thee, the union, that we may live for each other; being 
sympathetic companions, in mind and soul, that through 
the inspiration of deep affection and appreciation, our 
highest and holiest impulses may be developed. 

Give us O Father, the offspring of love; and grant 
that our children may arise and call us blessed. 



A TRUE WOMAN'S PRAYER. 

Thou Great Father of All, who didst create the first 
nian in Thine own hnage, and who also created me that 
I might fulfill my sacred destiny in becoming a noble 
wife and tender mother, I beseech Thee: Brong it about 
in Thine own waj' and time, that I shall meet, and know, 
the mate whom thou hast chosen and intended for me 
from the beginning. A manly man, who shall be hon- 
orable; one to whom I may look for protection and com- 
panionship: one who shall be the respected father of 
our offspring. M'ay Thy divine blessing attend the union, 
and may we both live to see our children's children. 



HUMAN HARPS. 

Men are like harps, varjn'ng in size, quality and con- 
dition; and like harps become discordant by a sudden 
jar or storm. The strings, laccording to the different 
temperaments, may be golden, silken, silver, copper, steel 
or gut; the finer strings may be out of tune, the others 
rusted or broken. 

Concord and discord in man is felt by others. The 
perfectly pitched and sweetly tuned man rests and 
comforts by his presence, while one who ils not in tune, 
grates upon our sensibilities. It is a m'an's duty to be 
ever alert lest he get out of tune. As a harpist tries 
to keep his harp in perfect accord, so should a man 
be eager to restore harmony to his being. Be a self 
stringed man! A true musician, competent to keep your 
instrument in perfect tune, by the aid of selfcontrol, 
patience and prayer; and life to you will be one grand 
sweet harmony. 



REJECTED MANUSCRIPTS. 

Every one who has ever aspired to composition of 
any kind, knows the feehng that attends one upon the 
first return of a manuscript. 

Like other th ngs this may be overcome, and little 
attention paid when lines are refused, for which reasons 
are not alwa.rs given. It may be, they had no use for that 
particular article. A ready supply is ever at the desk, 
so that they are not in need of yours. Again, one man 
may refuse what another would have welcomed. One 
refuses for lack of space, while another accepts because 
of suitable space. Sometimes, because your name had 
not won mer'.t, yours was shoved aside and preference 
given to a previous contributor. Bear in mind, that some 
of the "greatest works" were "refused several times" be- 
fore published. "Be not weary in well doing, for in due 
time ye shall reap, if ye faint not." It may be through 
patience, your wreath of laurel shall be won. 



WOMEN. 

The saying that "Happy women have no histories," 
need not necessarily imply that in order to tell the story 
of one's life, she must be wretched or uphappy. 

There are three classes of women: The; trivial woman, 
who sips but the froth from the cup of life; caring only 
for her own selfish joys and amusements. The earnest 
woman, who drinks the beverage, performing the duties 
lying nearest, thinkhig perhaps, but keeping within the 
domain of her own mind. The serious woman, who drains 
the cup to its bitter dregs, while, with a mind ever alert, 
asks herself the question: What am I here for? Wihat is 
my true mission? Surely, to better myself and do all in 
my power for the improvement of mankind. This spurs 
her on continually to encourage others by good advice, 
taken from shelves carefully kept in her closet of experi- 
ence; and when wisdom prompts, obeys the call, and writes 
for the world; not knowing who may read, or whether 
she m'ay live to be her own proof reader; but -2sts con- 
tent, feeling, that "she did what she could." 



STARVATION. 

Many people would be surprised to hear that thousands 
of people starve for love, friendship, kindness, compan- 
ionship, etc. Starvation does not apply to food only. A 
husband m'ay be in constant companionship with his wife, 
yet suffer for lack of reciprocation upon her part, in mat- 
ters of love, mentalit}^ spirituality, etc. One or the other 
suffers because of lack of appreciation of effort, qualities, 
sacrifices, etc. The wife, whose husband's position takes 
him from his fireside, cannot help but suffer from priv — 
ation and companionship; for her, the days and weeks 
drag heavily by, longing for the presence and caresses of 
him whom she promised to "love and oherish" until death. 
Aged persons, starve for kindness from their children; 
likewise children from parents. To children desirous of 
play, it is a punishment to keep them from associating 
with other children. Oh, that the starved might all be 
fed, and such suffering be removed, for it is really pitiable. 
May God create in us more love, that others might be 
fed. 



LEAVES. 

How vast the scope of study in Nature, there is found 
in a single leaf. Leaves, represent beings; trees, the 
world, which they inhabit. Leaves, vary 'as to size, 
shape and age, so that no two may be found exactly 
alike; disfigured ones, growing along with the perfect 
ones. The harmonious shading, representing the beaut}' 
and life of man; the delicate tinting, portraying the 
culture and refinement of man. The charming coloring, 
according with the knowledge and power of man. The 
green, infancy, in 'all its fres'hness and promise; the 
red, youth, with its ambition and pride; the brown, the 
man of reason and experience; the yellow, old age. with 
its subsequent death. Like people, some grov^r side by 
side, while others never come in contact with one another. 
According as each has fulfilled its mission, whether of 
use or beaut}^ 'Jt falls to earth; the high and lofty, flut- 
tering by thq side of the low and humble, to be crushed 
under foot, and buried in the same dust. Great are the 
inspirations drawn from leaves, by true artists and poei.s, 
to whom, their rustle, means a language which only tlie 
Great Interpreter can speak to the listening ears of hun- 
gry souls vv'ho must be divinely fed. 



PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. 

Memory, takes us back over the path already trodden. 
Necessity, compels us to recognize the conditions of the 
present. Hope, that great eye of the soul, looks for- 
ward with telescopic vision, gazing into the dim far 
away future. Not so far away either, for time flies, and 
the great things that seemed to have happened but yester- 
day are already upon the printed pages of history. We 
are ageing rapidly, but would endeavor to deceive even 
ourselves, and say, "not so," for was I not a child a little 
while ago! Yes, but a little while, and you shall be an 
aged sire. When does timej seem to move most rapidly? 
When we are at our best, making the most of ourselves; 
in other words, fully occupied. 

The child, anticipates youth; the youth, is anxious for 
manhood; but somehow, manhood dreads old age, and 
why? Is it not perfectly natural to grow and progress. 
And since each day that we have lived, counted in the 
standard that we represent, can we not work without 
worry, pray without ceasing, ihope without discourage- 
ment, and we shall find it better farther on; grown in 
grace, knowledge and experience; fully equipped for any 
call that may come to us, yea, even the call of time, Death, 



GOLD FOLKS. 

There arc people like gold, 
Who wear long and well; 
Good without, and pure within. 



BRASS FOLKS. 

There are people like brass, 
Whose shine soon wears off; 
False without, and base within. 



MONEY. 

Did you ever think how funny, 
People act because of money? 
Yet without it we are sad, 
And to get it always glad. 

Men for it choose suicide, 
Many for it take a bride; 
It does often cause a theft, 
Yet a friend to one bereft. 

From my hand to yours it goes, 
To the next a gift bestows; 
Pays the servant for his hire, 
Buys the coal to keep a fire. 



If you owe a man a bill, 
And can't pay, it makes you ill; 
When you meet upon the street, 
He may even call you "beat." 

But should you fall heir to cash, 
And a roll be seen to flash, 
You may pay your honest debts, 
And no one express "regrets." 

What are people without money? 
Only Billy, Dick or Johnny, 
But when they have wealth to spend, 
"This is Richard Jones, my friend." 



LOVE'S TRIUMPH 

Describe, if you will, the meeting 
Of two of the opposite sex; 
Whose glances keen and fleeting, 
Might any one perplex. 

Two souls see in each other, 
A reflection of their own; 
The Impulse, some may smother, 
And think the bird has flown. 

But the wings of love still flutter. 
The dove of peace seeks rest; 
The divine in each would utter, 
The emotion of the breast. 



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Describe if you may, the parting, 
Of these lovers fond and true; 
With eyes like arrows darting, 
Bespeaking, "I love you." 

Two hearts that blend together, 
Till melting into one; 
As light as weight of feather, 
Love's conquest has been won. 

Even silence, gives a token. 
As their souls with rapture thrill! 
While a twin thought, nothing spoken, 
Is the Master's, "Peace, be still." 



THE MOURNING DOVE 

While walking in my garden, 

To pluck a rose or two, 

My ear acute attracted, 

A woeful dove's soft coo ^" 

I glanced in the direction, 
Which proved to be my roof, 
And there observed the widow, 
As such was given proof 

Doubt not I could interpret, 
Her message sad and low; 
So deep was the impression, 
I fain to her would go. 

Fair lady in the garden, 
Please listen to my woe; 
I had a mate to cheer me. 
But he has gone, I know. 

Fair lady, in the garden, 
With all your grace and speech, 
Can you not use your power, 
My absent mate to reach? 

Ah, mournful dove, I understand. 
Your tone so sweet, yet sad; 
And wish that I might have the power, 
Again to make you glad. 



But let me whisper, why I know. 
So well just how you feel; 
For you, as well as others, 
My sympathy is real. 

I too, once had a lover, 
Just as you say you had. 
Another smiled upon him, 
He made another glad. 

And like yourself, I mourn for him, 
And shall while life will last; 
My tears are shed in silence, 
For him I pray and fast. 

But God would have us sufiFer, 
While here on earth we live; 
Our pain and anguish differ, 
When we experience give. 

But who bears a cross in patience, 
Of all his children blest, 
Will reach at last the ihaven 
Of peace and perfect rest. 



THE FAMILY ALBUM 

How oft have we in days of yore, 
Leafed the album o'er and o'er; 
Next to the sacred Bible old, 
Was prized the album, more than gold. 

First came Mother, when a bride, 
With Father standing by her side; 
Then Granny, in her plain attire. 
Arms linked and smiHng by her sire. 

The next was Uncle "Jake" and wife, 
Vv^ith "Baby Willie" true to life; 
Then Aunt "Jemima," Uncle "Abe," 
With Cousin "Martha" when a babe. 

A "distant friend" by name of "Lee," 
Who met with shipwreck out at sea; 
And Granny's Cousin, "Susan Hyde," 
Disgraced us all by "suicide." 

A soldier brave, who wouldn't wed, 

Is now enlisted with the dead; 

While "Betsey Anna," "getting old," 

Is worth her weight, they say, in gold. 



"Our second cousin," young and fair, 
Her wealth, a head of golden hair; 
Another one with conscious look, 
That says, "I'm havin' my pictur' took." 

By the s'de of Cousin Grace, 
Was preserved an empty space; 
('Twas intended for her beau, 
But it never happened so.) 

There's sister "Manda" in her hat, 
Holding in her lap a cat; 
The simple turning of a page, 
Shows even "Polly" in her cage. 

Because he tried to not keep still, 
A "Movie" of our brother "B.ll." | 

And last, well you would never gness, 
It's me in my best "Sunday dress." 

Time has sadly worn the book, 
Seldom do we in it look; 
But the older that I grow. 
The better I the "story" know. 



INSPIRED POETRY 

So many themes to write about, 
Yet hard to please, without a doubt; 
Come muses gay from Fairyland, 
Surround me now on every hand, 
And I will yield to thy command; 
Oh, here they come, a fairy band! 



Now hasten, shall it be of love, 
As pure and bright .as stars abo 
Of fortune, fame or beauty? 
Of trials, pain or duty? 
I glad} wait upon thy will, 
In order to reveal my skill. 



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A thought! as though a drvam by day, 
Conveys me back to childhood gay; 
Ah! what more innocent and bright, 
Could be my theme of which to write? 
Inspire me now as ne'er before, 
To extol upon the days of yore. 

Who has not seen the happpy time! 
Who has not read the nursery rhyme! 
Who does not wish, though old he be, 
To be a child on father's knee; 
*Twas then, that we were free from care; 
When all to us, seemed bright and fair. 



How we obeyed the golden rule, 
How pleased were we to go to school; 
Until we felt our joys were marred, 
By lessons that to us, seemed hard; 
And YQt, how light, when we compare 
Them with our present daily care. 

The next important step we took, 

Which gave no time for slate or book, 

Wfas play upon the stage of life; 

Become a husband or a wife; 

To try to do our very best, 

And yet, keep only with the rest. 

The years speed by and we grow old, 
While to the young our tale is told; 
The journey will to them be given, 
And they like us will too have striven; 
W^e now look forward to a day. 
That far surppasses childhood gay. 



MY SILVER WEDDING 

Twenty-five years, since my "wedding day,' 
When I, a bride, sailed "Down the Bay." 

Twenty-five years, since I took the vow, 
To "love and cherish" till cold the brow. 

Twenty-five years, and a parent fond. 
For children five have sealed the bond. 

Twent3^-five years have I stood the storm, 
Through Winters cold and Summers warm. 

Twenty-five years have I stood the test. 
Striving ever to do my best. 

Twenty-five years, and a Christian still. 
Climbing slowly the rugged hill. 

Twenty-five years, and in perfect health, 
Far more blessed than fleeting wealth. 

Twenty-five years, and many friends, 
The greatest boon that heaven sends. 

Twenty-five years, and I pray that we 
Might meet again beyond the sea. 



TWENTY-FIFTH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 

Twenty-five years, and yet how quickly flown, 
Since life was young, and ye were made ^as one; 

What then was said to hearts in tender strain. 
Like an echo, is heard o'er again. 

The rapid stream can never backward flow, 
And our lives on the stream of time doth go. 

The perfect rose will fade, each leaf decay. 
And the thne which is past, is past for aye. 

Oh then, wish it not back again. 

Life's pleasures are keen edged with pain. 

Gone with past years is the Summer's green. 
But fruitful and golden the Autumn scene; 

The flowers of Spring, are sweet and small. 
The fairest and largest grow in the Fall; 

The sun shines as bright, the sky >,s as blue 
Now, as when ye wed, and love was new. 

Then much of life is by time bereft, 
Yet much ye hold, if love is left; 

For all things of earth shall perish at last, 
Love alone remains, when time is past. 

CAROLINA N. RICHARDS. 



SILVER OR GOLD? 

Norma Stratton was a music teacher, church organist 
and story writer. But, instead of scattering her forces on 
all three, had she concentrated her powers upon an}' one 
of these, she might have won success, or obtained her goal. 

Her family, las she said, belonged to the "Silver Set," 
She wanted to be one of the "Gold." Norma Stratton was 
a very bus}^ girl. So busy, indeed, that she had no time to 
waste on "fickle beaus." She had seen, rather than met, 
and met, rather than knew, "men folks." Yes, she had 
seen some nice men, met a few good men, but did not 
know one rich man. 

Norma's birthday, (which by the way, was the thirtieth), 
was approaching, and with this cold fact staring her in 
the face. Norma paused in her busy career, and said: I 
shall not celebrate my "thirtieth" at home, to be teased 
and ridiculed. I'm sick and tired of the epithet, "Old 
Maid." 

Among Norma's friends to whom she might go, there 
were very few whom she could drop in on, incidently to 
celebrate her birthday. Especially, her "thirtieth." 

There was one, hovv^ever, who had really extended to 
Norma a standing invitation. And this one, proved to 
be the richest lad}' of her .acquaintance. But was it essen- 
tial that she should even mention the date of her birth? 
Of course not. 

So Mrs.. Chauncj' Petite was the chosen friend, Vv'hom 
Norma decided to visit. Time being short. Norma tele- 
graphed Mrs. Petite to expect her friend Norma Stratton, 
who set about, putting in order her out-ht. Such 
pressing and fixing, as might make her presentable 
to "Gold folks." I know what to do, said Norma. When 
my things get mussed, (and the impression made), I shall 
stop over for a day, to visit Mrs. Karl Kersey, who by the 
way, is a member of the "Silver Set." Mrs. Petite, of the 
"Gold." 

When the train rolled into the station. Norma caught a 
glimpse of Mrs. Petite, with a gentleman who was not her 
husband. As they met on the platform, Miss Stratton 
was introduced to Mr. GifTord. When seated in the 
Petite's touring car, Mrs. Petite said to Norma, Mr. Gif- 
ford surprised us last evening. His father being a capi- 
talist in the Metropolis, sent Wiade to make la personal 



deal with some of our richest land owners. He and 
Chauncy, roomed together at College. Norma smiled, and 
nodded, in appreciation of the guest. Mr. Gifford, as both 
agreed, was a verj'- handsome man. In physique, he was 
an Apollo, features regular, hair a golden brown. Sur- 
rounded on everj'- hand by luxury and cultured people, 
Norm.a did not dare to stay long. She pleaded the neces- 
sity of an early departure, saying: 

I just needed the change for a day from my work, for 
inspiration. But, as she was preparing to go, Mr. Gifford 
was going in the same direction, and would be glad to 
accompany her. Ere she was aware he had bought the 
tickets, and checked her baggage. Mr. and Mrs. Petite 
were loth to part so soon, from their delightful friends, 
but wished them "good luck" till they met again. After 
they were seated in a Pullman, Miss' Stratton said to Mr. 
Gifford, "I regret very much that you went to that bother 
and expense, as I decided upon leaving, to stop enroute, 
with a friend over night." I'm sorry I did not know that, 
as I anticipated traveling together, all the way. I must 
check 5'-our trunk from going through. Oh, never mind, 
said Norma, as I shall not need it. And ere long, Norma's 
stop was due, when the two took leave of each other. 

Norma Stratton! Of all people, to arrive just' in time 
for my birthday, exclaimed, Mrs. Kersey. Indeed! replied 
Norma, thinking of her own, also. "My birthday has not 
been celebrated since we were 'kids.' So the family de- 
cided, I should have a, 'sure enough' birthday party." We 
have invited thirty in all. Some, of course, may not come. 
As it was nearly four o'clock, and more to be done, Norma 
was sent upstairs to the guest room, until dinner should 
be announced. Oh, the trunk, said Norma, but asl it was 
not her fault, she made the best of the situation. Luckily, 
out of respect for her Golden hostess. Norma wore .a 
dainty waist, which must also serve in the celebration of 
her Silver One's birthday. (And mine, too, thought 
Norma.) The hours fairly flew, and ere long, dinner was 
served, and the guests began to assemble. One of the 
first to arrive, was a gentleman who came by himself, and 
was introduced to Miss Stratton, as Mr. Duffield. As 
Norma oame unexpectedly, (without an invitation), and 
Horace expectedly, (without an attendant), the two were 
set apart, to entertain each other. Horace Duffield, while 
under forty, was prematurely gray, and often mistaken 



for an older man than he really "^as. His manner, though, 
was pleasing, and on the whole, he vs^as a very line char- 
acter. His eyes were dark brown, his teeth well pre- 
served, his hair a silver gray. 

During the evening, Mrs. Kersey, was telling her guests 
about the joint birthdiay party, given by their mothers, 
when Miss Stratton and she were tots of five. Then, as 
heaping "coals of fire" upon the enemy's head, added: 
That was twenty-five years lago! And they all knew she 
was thirty! Even, Mr. Duffield! 

However, all spent a pleasant evening, as the guests 
tried to please their charming hostess, and her visiting 
friend, Miss Stratton. 

Not having her trunk, did matter after all, as Norma 
wanted to stay longer with her old friend, Anna Kersey, 
but the next day, with reluctance, they parted. 

How Mr .Duffield knew so well, had to be guessed, but 
strange to say, he was at the depot to see Miss Stratton 
off. When the train pulled in, Mr. Duffield boarded it 
too, which was nothing out of the ordinary, except, that 
he failed to return to the group at the station. 

Miss Stratton, said Mr. Duffield, you may be surprised 
to learn that I iam going to visit my sister, who lives in 
your City. Have been planning to go, and find this oppor- 
tune. When their destination was reached, both shook 
hands and parted, but in spirit remained present with 
each other. 

When Norma got home, there was a letter for her, post- 
marked New York. She had never seen his writing, but 
intuitively knew it Vv^asl from Mr. Wade Gifford, and was 
read with deep interest. Norma told the folks at home 
about her two visits, birthday party, and the two men 
she met. Just then, the bell rang, and Mr. Horace Duffield, 
was announced. Came to see if she got home safe, and pay 
his respects before leaving the city, as his sister had moved 
to the Country. Somehow, it just suited to invite him to 
supper, and somehow, he was asked to spend the evening, 
and somehow, gained the family's favor, and somehow, 
won the heart of Norm'a, whose admiration and aspiration 
were at swords points, fpr Horace Duffield, belonged to 
the Silver Set, and Wade Gifford, to the Gold. But when 
the struggle in her heart had ceased, and love had con- 
quered fame. Norma exclaimed: Who cares if heads be 
Silver, so long as hearts are Gold. 



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